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Comment/Objection Narrative* <br /> I have lived in Boulder County since 1970 and have concerns about the environmental issues relating to the <br /> Boulder Cross Mine and Grand Island Resources.This is especially true with the loss of Tom Hendricks to <br /> guide the mining activity. <br /> The December 2024 water quality violation for copper combined with the 2021 Cease and Desist Order are <br /> significant red flags.The repeated surface and ground water violations suggest that the water treatment system <br /> may not be adequate for active mining conditions. I suggest you require the applicant to demonstrate: <br /> (1)the ability to sustain compliance with water quality standards at current activity levels before permitting a 20- <br /> fold expansion;and <br /> (2)the ability of the upgraded water treatment system to effectively treat water from a greatly expanded <br /> operation of over 200 acres. Rigorously assess the likely impact of the proposed expansion of existing tunnels <br /> and the creation of new tunnels upon ground and well water. <br /> 50 years of mining is a long time.To ensure that the quality of downstream water complies with all applicable <br /> standards protecting humans,fish,and wildlife, put a rigorous and frequent water quality monitoring system in <br /> place for 75+years,or 25 years after mining ceases.Also, if the applicant is to remove up to 40,000 cubic <br /> yards of waste rock for 50 years,then measures to prevent acid mine runoff,including testing of waste and host <br /> rock,are appropriate. <br /> The following are further steps that would need to be taken prior to approval: <br /> Ensure that the environmental protection plan addresses the adjoining area as well as points downstream; <br /> specifies which minerals and chemicals will be present in the ponds and at what anticipated concentrations;and <br /> explains how birds,aquatic animals,bats,and land-based native wildlife will be protected.Additionally,the <br /> applicant plans to re-route surface water flows uphill of the operation around the disturbance area.Again, <br /> require the applicant to explain how Coon Track Creek, its associated wetlands,and the surrounding <br /> ecosystem will be impacted by this re-routing and how they will mitigate the impact. <br /> Require the maximum permissible financial warranty to cover the risk of bankruptcy and all potential <br /> environmental damage so that local municipalities and downstream water users are buffered from potential <br /> clean-up and water replacement costs to the maximum extent permissible by law. <br /> Living as we do in a landscape that is fire adapted, but also fire prone due to fire suppression, require that the <br /> applicant explain how explosives will be stored and used so that the fire danger is reduced to the absolute <br /> minimum possible.Then consult with experts, including the US Forest Service,about the adequacy of these <br /> measures. <br /> Incorporate the three issues indicated in the letter from Chris Mettenbrink, Colorado Parks and Wildlife,dated <br /> March 25,2025: <br /> •Use wildlife-friendly fencing, <br /> •Address noxious weeds and native re-seeding,and <br /> •Require the recommendations relating to nighttime lighting. <br /> It is critical to take all necessary measures to prevent this site from becoming another Superfund site, including <br /> seeking comprehensive, independent studies of critical aspects of the proposed mining activities. <br /> Permitting Action Comment/Objection is Regarding <br /> • New Permit Change to Existing Permit <br /> Permit Number* (?) <br /> Enter a valid permit number <br /> M1977410 <br /> County* <br /> Colorado County where the proposed operation is located <br /> Boulder <br /> Enter one county only <br /> Site Name <br /> Boulder Cross Mine <br /> Perm ittee/Operator Name <br /> Grand Island Resources <br /> ADDITIONAL INFORMATION <br />